The Cape Verdean community has been present in New Bedford and Dartmouth for generations. However, very few people know the significance of Milton Street in Dartmouth’s local history.
The mile-long road was a destination for most immigrants moving to the area because of the presence of previously settled Cape Verdean families, who helped them integrate into American culture.
Preserving traditions, learning new ones, and caring for each other became shared experiences in the neighborhood, turning Milton Street into one big extended family.
Third- and fourth-generation Cape Verdeans — some still residing on Milton Street — met with The Light to talk about their memories and how their ancestors’ integration process led to an inevitable change in their Cape Verdean culture.
Photo slideshow
Monteiro’s grandparents on Mother’s Day 1953 Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light 
Robert Monteiro Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light 
Eugene Monteiro Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light 
A photo of Corinne Monteiro Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light 
Russell J. Ramos Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light 
Joseph D. Thomas Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light 
Hilda Correia Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light 
Jeannette Leal Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light 
Our Lady of the Assumption Parish Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light 
Milton street sign Credit: Eleonora Bianchi / The New Bedford Light
A gentleman by the name of Joseph Montero lived on the corner of Milton St and Potter Street. He was my school bus driver in high school and drove school buses for about 30 years. After he was a member of the Dartmouth Housing Authority and did many great things to advance housing for senior citizens in Dartmouth. Joe’s son John Montero was an outstanding basketball athlete at Dartmouth High School and went on to be a member of the Dartmouth Police Department. He was always known for his friendliness and good humor.
great video! thank you!
Great video, I was born in New Bedford, went to Holy Family High School, knew no people of color, this video is important. The Cape Verdean immigrants should be admired for their and courage and hard work, their message on this video -language, keep their heritage, should be embraced by all of us white AMERICANS!
Thank you.
A wonderful heartwarming history.
Hopefully there will be more features like this.
Frances Lynch